Currently, conference tourism has become a significant source of revenue for many countries around the world. Ethiopia, with its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, has the potential to attract a large number of conference attendees.
According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) report, Eastern African countries such as Ethiopia and Kenya are among the top preferable countries in becoming the leading choice of international and regional conference organizers in Africa.
In recent years, Ethiopia has emerged as a top destination for conference tourism, attracting delegates from around the world to participate in various events and gatherings. With its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes, Ethiopia offers a unique experience for conference attendees.
With this in mind, so far, efforts are underway to stimulate and develop the country’s conference tourism. Private actors in the hospitality industry are working closely with the government to render quality conference services in the country. Active Public-Private-Partnership (PPP) is also fundamental to leading the sector effectively.
Recently, State Minister of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Birtukan Ayano said that training cadets is crucial for maximizing Ethiopia’s benefits of conference tourism by magnifying national unity and diversity of the country on the global stage.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia launched a training program for 100 protocol Cadets for the upcoming African Union Summit.
During the occasion, State Minister Birtukan said the initiative reflects the country’s growing diplomatic influence and emphasizes the importance of hospitality in establishing Ethiopia as a premier destination for international conferences.
The selected cadets will receive training to effectively serve guests during the AU meetings, which include the African Heads of State and Government of the 38th AU Summit and the 46th Executive Council Regular Session, she added.
Birtukan stated the significance of the training as Ethiopia’s diplomatic influence continues to grow.
She also underscored the importance of the training, noting that it will also elevate Ethiopia’s international image and strengthen bilateral relations with its allies.
Producing these cadets is crucial for maximizing the benefits of conference tourism for the country, she said.
Birtukan also underlined the significance of national unity and the role of every citizen in promoting Ethiopia on the global stage, showcasing the nation’s organizational capabilities and fostering national pride.
The State Minister also emphasized the importance of every citizen acting as an ambassador to enhance Ethiopia’s attraction as a premier destination for international and continental conference tourism.
Meanwhile, the ongoing Addis Ababa’s Corridor Development project is driving a powerful synergy between the public and private sectors, fueling economic growth, boosting development, and enhancing the sustainability of livelihoods, according to the Mayor.
During a site visit to three key corridor development projects, Mayor Adanech Abiebie, accompanied by senior government officials, updated journalists on the progress of the initiative. She highlighted that the corridor development is playing a pivotal role in fostering a 24-hour working culture in the city, improving business efficiency, and contributing to safer, more peaceful nights, with expanded public and private transport services.
The Mayor stated that the project’s main objectives are to improve connectivity, reduce traffic congestion, enhance cleanliness, and create a more conducive environment for economic activities. She added that it will promote market growth, facilitate easier movement of people, and ultimately make the city more competitive, aligning it with global standards.
As the first phase of the corridor development nears completion, business activity in the affected areas is flourishing, and the city is becoming increasingly attractive to investors. The project is also focused on transforming Addis Ababa into a vibrant diplomatic and investment hub, with key improvements such as underground construction and the renovation of historical sites.
Among the key renovations are the historic monuments in Piassa and Arat Kilo, including the statues of the Emperor Menelik II and, Abune Petros, Cinema Empire, Cinema Ethiopia, and the Hager Fikir Theatre. These landmarks are being modernized with stone cladding while preserving their original identities, ensuring their legacy for future generations.
Mayor Adanech added that once the corridor development is completed, it will enhance the beauty of the area, boost residents’ daily income, and transform the lives of those in surrounding communities aside from increasing the number of visitors. Notable projects, such as the Adwa Memorial Museum, are also part of this large-scale transformation.
In areas like Arat Kilo and Piassa, private businesses are thriving in a peaceful environment, contributing to local economic growth.
The first phase of the corridor development included car parking spaces, business shops, rest areas, and terminals for buses, taxis, and tourists, along with plazas and major road junctions connecting key areas of the city. This phase covers routes from 4 Kilo to Churchill Road and from 6 Kilo to Itegue Taitu Hotel, with large parking lots and terminals for buses, taxis, and tourists.
Phase two of the development is already underway, covering a larger area of the city and set to bring further improvements to Addis Ababa’s infrastructure and economy, according to Mayor Adanech.
So far, the city’s beautification immensely contributes to harnessing the country’s potential of attracting more conference tourism and more participants. Addis Ababa, being the headquarters of numerous international and regional organizations could become more competitive to host more conferences.
In sum, Ethiopia offers a wealth of opportunities for conference tourism, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. By taking advantage of all that Ethiopia has to offer and showcasing the country’s unique charm, conference organizers can create an unforgettable experience for attendees and maximize the benefits of hosting events in this diverse and exciting destination.
BY TEWODROS KASSA
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD FRIDAY 20 DECEMBER 2024
